Replacement Bessa R3a or used M4-2 or M4 Leica?

[jss273nyc]

So I just returned my Bessa r3a to Adorama where I bought it. I received a store credit and was planning to get another Bessa r3a when they arrive in stock. (I had the film advance problem.) As i was leaving, I spied a black M4-2 and an M4 in chrome. Should I replace my Bessa R3a (I'm a little worried about having trouble again since I bougtht the camera a month ago) or should I bite the bullet and get a used Leica? Any thoughts?

 

[FrankS]

If you're okay without a built-in meter, I'd say go with a Leica, but that's a big "if". The Leicas will also be more money, especially the M4.

 

[VictorM.]

The Darke Side beckons...go for it...at the very least fondle before you make your decision. If the Leica's are in good condition and the price is right and you're not one of those insecure types who needs a built-in meter, either an M4 or M4-2 will keep you happy almost forever. All seriousness aside, have a look at: http://www.imx.nl/photosite/leica/mseries/choosem.html before you buy. Then you'll need lenses!

 

[Huck Finn]

This seems like an easy decision because there are so many differences between these 2 cameras. What makes you hesitate?

 

[peter_n]

Also think carefully about buying used from B&H or Adorama in NYC. If you are serious about a used M, look at keh.com and their "bargain" (BGN) grade - usually good value for money.

 

[jss273nyc]

Well I have a store credit that is usable only at adorama. So I'm pretty much stuck to getting what they have available. I also heard that the M4-2 had quality issues. Is that true?

 

[Doug]

Jim you have a good eye; the M4 could be a great choice! Or whichever one has had a recent CLA. You'll want a Gossen or Sekonic meter as well, one with the incident metering feature. Will you miss the R3a's AE exposure?

 

[Sam]

Get the M4. Not having a meter isn't sucha big deal after a while. you get used to it and using a handheld makes you think.

 

[chug]

You could always get the CV light meter and put it on top for meter readings.

 

[rover]

Erwin Puts' discussion of about choosing Leica bodies addresses the quality issue, or internet rumor of a quality issue with the Canadian built Leica bodies. Victor linked it above. If you get a chance to handle the body, inspect it, and have a warrenty, the quality of the body you own is more important than what is on the internet.

 

[George S.]

Whenever I returned something to B&H, I received a full refund, no store credit. It's been a while, so I'm not sure if their policy has changed. Something to consider for future purchases.

 

[kneedropper]

I'm not saying it's unlikely you'd get two faulty R3's in a row, but I'd take the chance. I did and I'm now enjoying the security of AE as I'm just getting in to RFs. Sure I want a Leica, too, one day, but I'll need more experience and money...

 

[dll927]

I think the "quality issue" regarding the M4-2 is as much myth as fact. I've had an M4-2 since 1983. While it has been used only moderately, and certainly not enough to wear it out, I've had no problems with it.

Just becasue it wasn't Wetzlar-made doesn't cut any ice. The production facilities were moved to Canada. OK so the M4-2 doesn't have a self-timer. Well, how often do you use one??

Steve Gandy (of Camera Quest fame) criticises the exterior finish of the M4-2. It seems it's black chrome instead of enamel. Wow!! How many RF Leicas have been practically worn down to the metal by long use? Does that stop them from functioning? A CLA will bring it back up to par.

 

[SolaresLarrave]

Hey, Jim! It's your birthday! Reward yourself and leap for a Leica!

The rumored "quality issue" with the M4-2 was the use of plastic parts (allegedly). It's been said that Leica fixed the initial problems and all the subsequent models are as reliable as any other Leica.

Now... handle both cameras. The M4 is more likely to run for more money, but it's up to you. It also has been described as the best there is (not as problematic loading as in the M2 and M3, and easier film rewind). The M4-2 doesn't lag behind... except for the fact that it lacks a self-timer.

I'd aim for a Leica... but we don't know which lenses you have. In any event, regardless of the glass, if you can live without a metered body, and can afford the additional payment, go for the Leica. However, inquire first about their exchange policy and warranty!

 

[tomchuk]

Ack! Go with the Bessa! I've been eyeing the M4-2 at Adorama for a few weeks and saving my pennies. Oh well if might just have to keep saving and go for an M6 if you buy it 😉

Actually, I was also eyeing an R3a or R2a from Adorama - from your experience it sounds like it'd be best to hold off on that decision.

P.S. A first RFF post introduction - Hi, I'm Tom and I'm from Brooklyn, and have been dying for a nice RF to complemet my Nikon digital gear that 1. Stands out far too much when shooting in NYC and 2. is just to big for me too bring with me everywhere I go.

 

[Doug]

Welcome, Tom! Yet another one saving Leica pennies.. 😀 You're fortunate to live where there are lots of choices and choice prices!

 

[tedwhite]

If you liked the Bessa, ask them that, if they give you another and it's no good, will they still honor the store credit? In that case, then I'd go for the Leica.

Ted

 

[o0dano0o]

I got an m4-2 a few weeks ago and haven't used my bessa since. Maybe it's time to sell it...

gotta love the ninja street shootin leica

 

[kbg32]

I've had my M4-2 for 25 years. No problems whatsover.........

 

[rich815]

While waiting to see if I could find a good user M3 I found the RA3 online and loved what I saw. So I bought it. Right after I placed the order I rec'd an email offering me a fully-CLA'd SS M3 at a very reasonable price ($550). This was back in December. I convinced myself that I worked my butt off last year and deserved at least to try both with the idea I'd sell the one I use or like the least. Well, I still have both and have no plans to sell either. They have different feel and different style. One is not necesarily better than the other. Of course build-wise the M3 is fantastic and it's quieter than the RA3. But the RA3 has it's own nice styling and feel in the hand and sometimes I really do not want to bother with a meter. After 25 years of photography I can guestimate and use the sunny-16 rule for B&W and perhaps color neg with the M3 but if I shoot slide I definitely need the RA3 or my meter with the M3. So, I keep both around. If I need absolute quiet shutter and/or want to use my Nikkor 135 it's the M3, if I'm shooting in fast, differing light conditions I might grab the RA3. My point? You should decide which will be better for your shooting style based on comments like mine and others. The M4-2 is a nice camera. Myths of build quality aside you could consider asking Adorama for a full refund and find a good user M3 like I did, the M3 having no quality "myths". Or get another RA3. There's a few lemons but far more satisified RA3 users who had no issues.